Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule moving forward.

How often should I water my ivy-leaved geranium?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil is dry. The exact timing depends on how much sun and heat your plant gets.

Ivy-leaved geranium: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch deep to see if it is soggy.
Inspect the drainage hole to ensure it is not blocked.
Check the base of the stems for soft or discolored tissue.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems feel mushy near the soil line and the leaves turn yellow or wilt despite the soil being wet. You might also notice a sour smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant does not perk up in a few days, remove it from the pot and trim away any black or slimy roots before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot lacks holes or sits in a saucer filled with standing water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has at least one large drainage hole at the bottom. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of water for more than 30 minutes after you finish watering.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your ivy-leaved geranium

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the stems are black and mushy all the way up to the leaves, the plant is likely beyond saving. It is normal for a few lower leaves to yellow as the plant grows, but mushy stems are always a sign of trouble.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Use a potting mix specifically designed for containers to ensure proper aeration.

Ivy-leaved geranium: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your ivy-leaved geranium and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule moving forward.
How often should I water my ivy-leaved geranium?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil is dry. The exact timing depends on how much sun and heat your plant gets.

Why is my ivy-leaved geranium rotting at the base?